Former Ole Miss defensive star signs big contract with Denver

A former Ole Miss standout on the defensive line received a big payday as he signed a new multi-year contract with the Denver Broncos. Defensive tackle DJ Jones agreed to a three-year contract with $20 million guaranteed on Monday, earning his first big payday in free agency.

Former Ole Miss star signs with Denver

Jones was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, and he spent his first five seasons in the league with the 49ers. Jones earned a starting role in 2019, and had a significant jump in his production over the 2021 season. His fifth year saw him record two forced fumbles, two sacks and ten tackles for a loss — an improvement that opened the door for him to sign a great new deal with the Broncos.

“The Broncos agreed to terms with defensive tackle DJ Jones on a 3-year, $30 million deal with $20 million fully guaranteed. Big addition,” said NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

A former star at Ole Miss, Jones spent the first two seasons of his college career with East Mississippi Community College, which achieved fame on the Netflix series Last Chance U. At Ole Miss, Jones played two seasons under coach Hugh Freeze and anchored the defensive line. He left the Rebels for the NFL after recording 70 tackles, six sacks and an interception.

Jones will be joining a Denver team in a state of change, having recently completed a blockbuster trade for All-Pro quarterback Russell Wilson. Part of the trade package included defensive end Shelby Harris, a fixture of the Denver defense since 2017. In 75 games Harris recorded 203 tackles, 34 tackles for a loss, 25 passes defended, and 44 quarterback hits.

Denver additionally traded quarterback Drew Lock and tight end Noah Fant in the deal. Additionally, the trade was reported to include giving Seattle two first-round, two second-round and a fifth round draft pick.